It is important to understand how to take proper care of trees for them to survive this season's storms. ServiceMaster by Wright has prepared some tips about tree care and tree damage for property owners' reference before a storm strikes.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Fallen Trees?
- A fallen tree is classified as a peril in insurance terms and may be included in coverage.
- If a tree fell due to natural causes, such as heavy rainfall, storms or strong winds, the cost of any damage to a property, garage or shed will most likely be covered by homeowners insurance.
- However, if negligence or poor maintenance are proven to be the cause of the tree's collapse, damages incurred will not be covered.
- Insurance will typically not cover debris cleanup caused by a fallen tree, especially if no structural damage was caused.
- Repair costs for a neighbor's fallen tree is covered by that person's policy.
- For additional coverage information, contact your insurance provider.
How to Spot an Unhealthy Tree
- Hollowed out sections (have them checked by a local arborist)
- Large and visible cracks found on the branches and trunks
- Older trees
- Rotting, mold or fungal growth on the bark of the tree
- Trees and branches leaning at a sharp angle
If any of these signs are noticed, take action immediately:
- Contact the local power company to report any tree limbs close to utility lines.
- Do not cut a tree down without professional assistance, as it can potentially cause injury.
- Old trees or those that appear to lean must be inspected by a professional.
- Prune branches close to a structure.
- Trim dangling or cracked tree limbs.
Make an Appointment for Storm Damage Restoration
Stop by our office at 6451 Arc Way, Fort Myers, FL 33966 or visit our website to discover our additional Southwest Florida locations.
Call ServiceMaster by Wright at (239) 431-9947 or connect with us online to schedule an appointment.
Southwest Florida Roofing Pros is a full-service roofing firm serving the Collier as well as Lee county area.
Our mission is Prize-winning Customer Care and also the best in roof covering.
If you would like to connect with our roof covering company in Naples or Fort Myers, please reach out to us at 239-319-5287 today.
Roof Leaks fixRoof leaks are probably one of the most annoying problems every homeowner has experienced at least once in his or her lifetime.
Most individuals aren’t even aware just how severe a small roof leak Storm Damage is, mainly due to all the other issues that it can create.
Shingles are usually made from asphalt tar mixed with pieces of rawhide.
Finding your perfect freezer and ice maker appliance is no easy task, so we created a short buying guide to help you make an informed decision when choosing a freezer and ice maker.
Factors to Take into ConsiderationChoosing the right style of freezer and ice maker is only the first step.
Measure the height, width, and depth of the space available and compare it to the dimensions of the unit you’re considering.2.Production Determine how much ice is produced per day.
Some also have speed-production modes for last-minute ice on demand.3.
To reach total possible production, the internal storage area may need to be emptied throughout the day.4.Door If you choose an ice maker without a reversible door, make sure to consider if the direction of the door swing will accommodate the space you have available.5.DrainageSome ice makers need to be installed with proper drainage while others, such as portable models, do not require a drain.
If you purchase a unit that requires drainage, you may also need to consider professional installation or preparation of the area.6.FiltrationSome ice makers offer integrated filters that eliminate contaminants from the ice prior to freezing, which is a great feature for ice you’ll use in beverages.7.EfficiencyRunning your ice maker all day takes energy.
Flooding toilets are an unwelcomed sight for any home or business owner.
Aside from potential health concerns, there is also the trouble of an increasing water bill.Toilet overflows usually require professional intervention, as the water involved may be harmful and the damage sustained widespread.
Before responding to the situation, it is important to understand the common causes of toilet flooding and how to prevent them.
Overflows and flooding occur when something prevents this system from working properly.BlockagesA clog in the system is preventing sewage from being flushed.Damage in the water lineBroken water pipes can cause a massive amount of water to flood the bathroom, which could escalate in a matter of moments if the shutoff valve is not closed in time.Damage in the sewer lineA blocked, broken or cracked sewer line will not allow sewage to drain properly.
When this happens, sewage backs up the sewer line and re-enters the property through the lowest possible point, which is most often be a basement toilet.Shower leakLeaks can form if a shower's foundation is compromised.
ServiceMaster Restore has some tips below.Adjust the fill valve or ballcock to reduce the amount of water entering the tank if the water is continuously escaping down the overflow tube.Check the flapper to ensure that it is not chipped, hardened, or worn.
When an older unit has continuous issues or shows signs of reduced energy efficiency, it could be more economical to upgrade your home comfort system.
A Tempstar dealer can help you diagnose your heating and cooling system, as well as help you choose a replacement that fits your needs and budget.
Some reasons to repair the unit:The cost of repairs is less than one-third the cost of a replacementThe unit is less than 10 years oldThe unit is still under warranty (see your warranty terms) Here are some reasons for replacing your heating or cooling unit:The cost of repairs is near 50% of the cost of a replacementThe unit requires frequent repairs.Humidity problems that signal operating issuesWarranty expirationsHigh dust and low air quality problemsThe furnace is more than 15 years old, and the heat pump or AC is more than 10 years oldart by addressing your air conditioner's stage of life.
Remember that average units have about 10 to 15 years of life in them, so if yours is anywhere close to double digits, replacement may be the better move.
If age isn't a strong deciding factor, think back to how well your unit performed last summer.
Constant repairs, strange noises, higher-than-normal energy bills and other performance issues should also inform your decision to repair or replace.Look for signs of trouble when prepping for the seasonIf you're already thinking of summer, it's a sign that you should start prepping your AC for the season as well.
Basement flooding can bring multiple problems to property owners, which is why it is important to take action to lessen the damage before the professionals arrive.
Before entering a flooded basement, ask yourself the following questions: Is the water contaminated?Is the basement structurally safe?Is there a sign of a gas leak?Is there a risk of electrical shock?Clean up.
After ensuring that it is safe to enter the basement, wear proper protective equipment such as boots, gloves and eye protection, carefully shielding your skin from coming in contact with the water.
Keep children and pets away from the flooded area.
Document contaminated items for insurance purposes before disposing of them.
If building materials have been damaged, they have to be removed within 24 hours to prevent the growth of mold.
